I need some advice. As a stay-at-home-mom, the funds in our one-income household can run a little tight most months. To help bring in some extra income, I work from home and do some billing for my dad's insurance company. This is HUGE for us and is such a blessing to have a consistent extra income. But, even though I bring in that amount, there's always a need for a little extra cash.
God has blessed me with the ability to create. I can sew, craft, and make all kinds of things. So, lately I've been thinking that maybe I need to begin selling some of the things I make. I've sold some things to friends here and there, but never really opened it up for the public. That's where you come in. Can you help me decide if these are things people would actually purchase? I've heard that ETSY is a good place to sell handmade items, but I don't know anything about it. Anybody know any good ways to market things like this and get started? Take a look at these pictures and let me know what you like and what you think would sell in an ETSY store (or wherever!). I'd really appreciate all the help I can get!!!
Cross Plaques - many different options available
Pillowcase dresses
Custom Hairbows
Ruffled Outfits
Backpacks
Picture Frames
Tassels
Custom Bows
I also make custom pillows with decorative trims, but can't find my pictures of any of them.
Anyway, you get the idea of what I like to do. Got any suggestions for me? PLEASE HELP!!! :-)
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10 comments:
Well, you know my vote without me even having to say ;-) I've always thought you should sell the things you make! They're beautiful and much more original and creative than you see out shopping - even at Canton!!! It is most definitely a gift from God!! You KNOW I would be a customer :-)
Hi! I'm a friend of Shelly Tyler. I love your items, and I think that you could sell them for sure. I think it's worth a shot! You are really talented. What a gift it is that you are able to be at home with your children. Good luck!
I think your items are beautiful and Etsy would be a good place to start. I think you should definitely try especially getting it started now will help when the holiday season starts because your business will already be established.
My vote is YES, you can sell these items and make pretty good money.
Check out Etsy. It's easy to start up a store, especially since you already have the pictures. You don't have to have premade stock. You can make everything as it is ordered.
I have another idea too. I'll email you separately.
I think your stuff looks fabulous - sell it sister!
Mandy you would have your first customer and that would be me. I would buy cross plaque number one from you. How pretty! You are talented and should do this for sure.
My next post will be on my blog friends Etsy shops. If you want me to add you if you decide to open one let me know.
Good Luck! ~Melissa :)
I think you've made beautiful items and think that they would sell. I think etsy is a good way to try it out. I don't know much about it, I've read a little here and there as I make custom cards, but I'm not ready for that leap myself:-) What I've read about etsy seems pretty straightforward. Big Cartel is another place to sell homade items. I hope this link works, might be an interesting read for you: http://www.maggiewhitley.com/2010/04/etsy-vs-big-cartel/
Best wishes on the possible verge of a new buisness. Very exciting!
LOVE your new favicon!
They are gorgeous and exactly what I see sold on Etsy! :-) I'd help promote you! :-)
Geez...I've been telling you to do this for YEARS!! :-) You are definitely gifted and I think you would build a great clientele easily! My neighbor sells things on Etsy (she goes to church with us)...I can connect you with her, if you want to ask some questions. I think Etsy would be easier than Canton - make as you get orders. I say go for it!
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